21 Nov Editor, Author, and Arc Angel, Alayne Kay Christian

I am thrilled to have my friend, the talented Alayne Kay Christian here with us today. She is the acquisitions editor and creative director at Blue Whale Press as well as a multi-published author. She is a VERY busy lady, but she’s not too busy to visit with me here and to offer a great GIVEAWAY! 🙂 

Welcome, Alayne. Can you tell us some pros and cons to being both an editor and an author? Sounds like a lot of work!

As the acquisitions editor and creative director at Blue Whale Press and a published author, there are pros and there are cons. I’ll see if I can list a few of them.

PROS

• I can use my knowledge from being an author, critique professional, and teacher to take submissions that have great bones but still need a little something, and then find that “little something” together with the author via a request for a rewrite or via editing once the book is acquired.
• I can use my experience to encourage rewrites and edits that inspire the author instead of crushing them.
• Publishing someone else’s book is a thrill that is as close as you can get to seeing your own book published. What a joy! I think of it as being similar to being a grandma—you love that little extension of your son or daughter so much you can’t stand it. But it is a different kind of precious love.
• Watching the book come alive as the illustrations come in and then get laid out in the book with text is like magic with every book. I love the process and being part of it.
• Helping people launch or further their careers is so rewarding. I have a giving spirit, and this helps me keep my spirit alive and happy.
• So, when it comes to publishing, my experience as an author, critique professional, and writing teacher and my knowledge of art is a plus for getting books from submission to release and beyond.

CONS

• As you said, it is a lot of work!
• As an author who also helps run a publishing company, I find very little room to write. And that haunts me, and sometimes saddens me.
• As an aspiring illustrator who also helps run a publishing company, I find very little room to study and practice. And that not only haunts me but also disappoints me.
• Because of the time I spend working in the publishing and writing world, my personal world sometimes suffers–as a wife, daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, friend and as my own self-caregiver. Unfortunately, that takes a lot of balancing, and I’m not always the best at it.
• As a creative, focusing on other peoples’ creative endeavors and doing my best to help them drains my creative reserves.
• Helping so many people reach their goals via Blue Whale Press, critiques, webinars, and so on leaves me leaving my goals for “someday.”
• As acquisitions editor, it is painful to be unable to respond to everyone who submits. Being an author who knows the torture of hearing crickets after submissions, I feel so bad that I can’t write everyone back. And then I have a desire to give everyone tips on what might take the story to the next level. But I have to face the reality that I’m just one person, and there are only so many hours in a day. Nevertheless, it bothers me. So that is a con. I do at least post on the Blue Whale Press Facebook page when all decisions have been made. That way, at least anyone who follows our page will know that their latest submission has been passed on and released to the universe so it can find its perfect home.
• Along the same lines as above, it bothers me that I don’t have more time to help Blue Whale and Clear Fork people promote their books. And along the same lines, it bothers me that I can’t help my author and illustrator friends and critique partners as much as I would like. And it REALLY eats away at me when I can’t be as reciprocal as I would like.

HA! How’s that for true confessions 😉

I guess most of the cons really equate to me wishing I could clone myself and make it all happen. But so far, no luck on that 😉 So, I just keep juggling and doing the best I can on all fronts while I keep the pros to this publishing and writing life that I have chosen in front of me.

PROS

See what I did there—the good old sandwich trick! I couldn’t leave off on a negative note. So, here we are back to pros. Some more pros to both my work with Blue Whale Press and my work as an author are . . .

• I get to meet so many fabulous people who often turn into friends.
• I get to make books that often teach something new and interesting or will bring children joy, wonder, and curiosity, or maybe even offer them a solution to something they are struggling with.
• I get to share the joy of authors and illustrators having their first book published, and sometimes their second or third or beyond.
• I get the pleasure of seeing all my hard work appreciated.
• I get the satisfaction of knowing that I played a part in putting something beautiful and positive out into the world.
• I get to see my own books come to life! Who could ask for more?

Those are some great reasons to keep going! I especially love how you encourage your authors.

Your newest book, The Weed that Woke Christmas, The Mostly True Talk of the Toledo Christmas Weed, came out in October. This book is absolutely beautiful in every way. The lyrical writing will appeal to young readers and listeners, the illustrations are gorgeous,  and the story is so inspiring. 

Please tell us a little about the book. What gave you the idea? And can you explain the “mostly true” part?

THE IDEA

The Weed That Woke Christmas: The Mostly True Story of the Toledo Christmas Weed is based on a true story that I discovered one day in December 2018 while watching the news in Texas. I’ll try to keep this short. A family in Toledo decided to put Christmas decorations on this large brown, shriveled up weed. Then someone left a gift under the tree, and other people added to the decorations on and around the tree. Then more and more gifts were dropped off. Crowds gathered to see and celebrate the weed. News reporters came and Santa and his elves came. There was a book that people could sign, which in the end, had names from all over the world.

I’m so excited to share that Weed made it back to Toledo, Ohio in my book when it was featured in the Toledo Blade Newspaper!

https://www.toledoblade.com/a-e/culture/2020/11/13/the-weed-that-woke-christmas-celebrates-toledoans-holiday-spriti/stories/20201113002

Following is the description of the book

ABOUT THE BOOK

The Weed That Woke Christmas: The Mostly True Tale of the Toledo Christmas Weed is a heartwarming and inspiring book that proves that even the smallest gestures can make a big difference and transform apathy and oblivion into awareness, unity, community, kindness, and hope. Partly truth and partly fiction, it is based on the true story of how a weed on a Toledo street corner helped spread the giving spirit far beyond its traffic island home. All Weed wants is to be seen, but people are in too much of a hurry to notice each other, let alone Weed. Weed watches, wishes, and waits until finally, someone does see it. But Weed discovers that there is something far bigger and more important than a little weed being noticed.

“The fine message about holiday spirit makes for a perfect read for parents seeking stories that encourage kids to feel empowered to begin changes that cross age and economic barriers. The Weed That Woke Christmas is a lovely, positive, much-needed story for modern times.” —D. Donovan, Sr. Reviewer, Midwest Book Review

“This sweet story is accompanied by lush illustrations by Gortman, who portrays Toledo’s citizens as diverse. The author manages to convey the importance of charity and community without making the tale mawkish or trite. She closes the text with the real story of the Christmas Weed and the hope that the holiday magic will continue.” —Kirkus Reviews

What great reviews! I concur! 🙂 

THE “MOSTLY TRUE” PART

The story I wrote for The Weed That Woke Christmas pretty much follows the true story. Following are the “mostly” true parts.

• The Weed did disappear, but not because of a storm. In the true story, sadly on December 28, 2018, someone stole the Christmas Weed. The news called that “someone” a Grinch. He was caught on cameras pulling the Christmas Weed from the ground, grabbing armfuls of gifts, and throwing it all in his trunk before taking off in his car. The next day, local Girl and Boy Scouts cleaned up the area under the supervision of the police, and what was left of the gifts was given to local charities.
• Although Weed was the catalyst for this phenomenal tale, he was just a weed. When I decided to write the story from Weed’s perspective, I anthropomorphized him by giving him thoughts, desires, and emotions. So, by humanizing Weed and giving him a desire and having him experience personal growth turned the story into fiction. Even though the true story dominates and surrounds Weed.

THE NOT SO CHRISTMAS STORY ABOUT CHRISTMAS

I’m happy to share that The Weed That Woke Christmas was chosen to be included on the Society for Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators’ (SCBWI) recommended reading list for books about kindness in 2020. This book is so much more than a Christmas story. It is a story that needs to be read year-round. Given the distressful state of humankind exhibited in 2020, I pray that this beautiful story of unity will be read by many! It is my hope that, just like in the story, the unity created by Weed will sprout around the world spreading and growing goodness and love . . . not only at Christmastime but all through the year.

I’d like to acknowledge the illustrator, Polina Gortman, for helping to bring this story to life with her fabulous art.

Such a beautiful book! I know it is close to your heart.  But you had another book released this year that was also close to your heart. Can you tell us a little about  An Old Man and His Penguin: How Dindim Made João Pereira de Souza an Honorary Penguin? 

THE IDEA

When I first saw this true story on a YouTube video of João and Dindim strolling along the beach, taking a swim, or sharing kisses, my heart melted. And I had to know more. It didn’t take long before I was off writing my first draft of this sweet story of a very unique friendship that to me, represents adoption. Dindim loves João as if he is his Penguin father and João loves Dindim as if he is a son.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Off the coast of Brazil, João rescues a lifeless, oil-covered penguin (Dindim) and nurses him back to health. Dindim adopts João as an honorary penguin, and the steadfast friends do everything together. They swim together, fish together, and stroll the beach together. But there are real penguins somewhere across the sea. So one day, Dindim leaves João. The villagers tell João the penguin will never come back. João cannot say if he will or will not. Are the villagers right? Will Dindim ever patter into his old friend’s loving arms again?

I’d like to acknowledge the illustrator, Milanka Reardon, for helping to bring this story to life with her beautiful art. This book was released in the “summer of COVID,” and it didn’t get the attention it might have at a more normal time. Milanka’s work deserves to be seen, and I hope it will be seen by many.

This is another book that I love. And again, reviewers agree with me! 

A moving, affectionate, and joyful tale, all the more so for being true.” —Kirkus Reviews

“An Old Man and His Penguin holds a number of important messages about human/animal relationships, love, oil slicks and their impact on sea life, and loneliness. . . . its underlying focus on letting go and reaping rewards from non-possessiveness offers an outstanding lesson about love for the very young.” —D. Donovan, Sr. Reviewer, Midwest Book Review

“Adults looking for an inviting animal story with an important message will welcome this appealingly different seaside tale.” —D. Donovan, Sr. Reviewer, Midwest Book Review

“The underlying lesson about compassion and good stewardship is subtle but effective; an author’s note explains the real-life circumstances. Reardon, who also illustrated the penguin-themed Noodles’ & Albie’s Birthday Surprise (2016), deftly captures the story’s charm and expressiveness.” —Kirkus Reviews

I know you write in other genres besides picture books. Can you talk a little about that? (By the way, my grandson is reading your original “Sienna” now)

I love that your grandson is reading Sienna! Thank you for letting me know. I also love that boys enjoy Sienna. I have been told this many times in the last year. So if boys enjoy Sienna, the Cowgirl Fairy: Trying to Make It Rain, they will love the second book in the series, Cowboy Trouble, which is coming out in the spring. Of course, girls and adults will love it too! I’m hoping it will provide lots of people with fun summer reading.

Regarding writing other genres in addition to picture books, my natural writing voice is caught somewhere in between picture books and novels. So, when I find a picture book that really begs to be a chapter book, I give it a try. That’s what I did with Sienna, the Cowgirl Fairy, which started out as a picture book. I do have one adult murder story that I’m dying to finish one day. I just have to find the time, and as I revealed earlier, time is hard to come by in my world of many hats.

Hmm…A murder story you are dying to finish. Interesting. But back to “Cowboy Trouble.” Will you describe it, please? 

Aunt Rose is getting married, and guess who she’s asked to be her flower girl. Sienna’s sadder than a coyote without a howl. “I’d look mighty silly in a dress. I’d trip over my own feet in them fancy shoes. And I ain’t much good at manners neither.” Ma signs Sienna up for cowgirl charm school where Sienna discovers she’s even worse at being elegant than she thought she’d be. To make matters worse, Billy Bob and his band of bullies see Sienna in her charm school clothes and raise a ruckus. Maybe Sienna can teach those cowboys a thing or two about manners and poise. But can she learn enough at charm school to walk down the aisle without embarrassing herself and Aunt Rose?

You teach a course called “Art of Arc.” Please tell us a little about that. How can people sign up for it?

ART OF ARC: How to Analyze Your Picture Book Manuscript is a reasonably priced independent study, picture book writing course. It includes 217 pages with ten lessons, seventeen supplements, and eighteen worksheets. Plus bonus materials and resources. Worksheets can be re-used for a writing template, critique template, polishing a manuscript, or for text mentor book analysis.

The course objective is to deepen writers’ understanding of picture books written with a classic arc and to introduce them to many other picture book structures. The course also addresses a number of common issues I have found in the manuscripts I critique.

Sounds amazing! Check it out by clicking here.  

Alayne, somehow you manage to be prolific, even though you are so busy. Do you have a specific writing routine? If so, will you share?

Unfortunately, I don’t have a writing routine anymore. I just snatch up whatever time I can get. The good news is my writer’s brain never turns off, so ideas keep popping up and in the back of my mind, stories are churning and forming.

What advice do you have for aspiring children’s authors?

It’s important to be dedicated to your craft, but if you want to be a well-rounded, happy person, don’t let it consume you. Remember the other things in your life that are important to you, and be sure to nurture them and yourself. Maintain balance.

Don’t be in a hurry. Trying to push the current instead of letting it flow is often exhausting and disappointing. Let the process unfold naturally and enjoy the ride. It will come. And if it doesn’t, maybe there are more important things in life.

Last, but not least—read, read, read and study, study, study published books in your genre. Take courses wherever possible. Read craft books. Join a critique group. Or find critique buddies in manuscript swap group like KIDLIT411 Manuscript Swap. https://www.facebook.com/groups/KIDLIT411MSswap/

Let’s talk a little about your upcoming 2021 release (If you want 😊 )

Try to stop me 😉 I’m overjoyed to share that Clear Fork Publishing’s SPORK will be bringing my picture book FAITH BENEATH THE BRIDGE into the world in 2021! And what is it about? Here you go . . .

Homelessness can be harrowing for a young girl, but Faith dreams, a boy cares, a snowfriend listens, and together they make the kind of magic that only hope, kindness, and friendship can conjure.

Faith Beneath the Bridge is about a lonely homeless girl named Faith who builds a snowfriend named Mabel and magical things begin to happen. Faith longs for warmth, food, and a new home. It seems Mabel has the ability to make her dreams come true. The power of kindness, generosity, friendship, and love carry Faith’s belief in magic. Faith is unaware of the boy who watches, listens, and helps in every way he knows how.

While this is a magical story, it brings to light a serious issue. My husband and I traveled the United States as full-time RVers from the spring of 2016 until October 2018. And I’ve seen homelessness in nearly every state. There has been a continual rise in homeless encampments, sometimes called tent cities, and a struggle for the government to provide the proper help.

I wrote this story to bring awareness to all children. I also wrote it to give a voice and hope to homeless children. There are no magical fixes for a homeless life. But I wanted to share the message that like the secret giver in this story, lending a helping hand and doing what we can to help others does create a certain kind of magic.

Maureen McAfee will be illustrating this book. And given the character studies, so far, it’s going to be beautiful!

JUST A FEW STATISTICS

I have to admit the following numbers are likely a bit off, since they come from earlier research, and numbers have been growing in the last years, but just to give an idea . . . Each year in America, 2.5 million children experience homelessness, representing one in every 30 children in the United States. In 2018, each night a total of 552,830 people experienced homelessness. The number of students in kindergarten through 12th grade who are homeless has increased by 70 percent over the last decade. In the 2016-17 school year, there were 1.36 million students without a traditional home. Many live in shared housing, but 4% (54,400) were identified as being completely without shelter.

Faith Beneath the Bridge sounds like a beautiful and important book. I can’t wait to read it. 

But let’s get back to the books that are here NOW. Where can people purchase The Weed that Woke Christmas and your other wonderful books?

You should be able to buy all my books wherever books are sold, and specifically Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Booktopia, BooksaMillion, Book Depository, Indie Bound, direct from Clear Fork Publishing, and for retailers and librarians via Ingram. I hope people will remember to leave reviews if they like the book.

Here are a few direct links for The Weed That Woke Christmas

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-weed-that-woke-christmas-alayne-kay-christian/1137418710?ean=9780981493817

https://www.indiebound.org/book/9780981493817

https://www.booktopia.com.au/the-weed-that-woke-christmas-alayne-kay-christian/book/978098149381

One more fun treat for readers! Check out these fabulous trailers!

Penguin https://youtu.be/HWaxlAOk8Tg

Weed https://youtu.be/QKQ_BtGFhzE

Again, thank you for inviting me to chat for this interview. It has been my pleasure.

Thank YOU for coming! 

And NOW, the great giveaway I mentioned! Alayne will send a copy of her book, An Old Man and  His Penguin and to a lucky winner. All you have to do is comment on this post. If you are a follower of this blog or sign up, let me know in the comments, and you will double your chances of winning. 

Bio

Alayne Kay Christian is the acquisitions editor and creative director for Blue Whale Press, an imprint of Clear Fork Publishing. She’s an award-winning children’s book author and the creator and teacher of a picture book writing course Art of Arc. Alayne offers webinars under the name Writing for Children Webinars and Courses. She has been a professional picture book and chapter book critique writer since 2014, and she worked three years for Julie Hedlund’s 12 X 12 as a critique ninja. Alayne has spent the last twelve years studying under some of the top names in children’s literature. Born in the Rockies, raised in Chicago, and now a true-blue Texan, Alayne’s writing shares her creative spirit and the kinship to nature and humanity that reside within her heart. You can learn more about Alayne by going to alaynekaychristianauthor.com.